Purchasing the Draft version of a standard (ISO/DIS) doesn't grant you to have its final version for free. Draft versions are subject to changes, hence the final publication will have to be purchased as well.
ISO standards go through several stages of development, where draft versions, such as Draft International Standards (DIS) and Final Draft International Standards (FDIS), provide opportunities for feedback and refinement. This separation ensures that each version serves a distinct purpose during the development cycle.
Understanding Draft vs. Finalized Editions
ISO occasionally releases draft editions of upcoming standards before the finalized version is published. These drafts allow users to preview and even utilize the proposed updates while the standard is in its pre-publication phase. This means:
These drafts are typically released based on decisions made by the responsible technical committees, which consider the necessity of public input or testing during the draft stage.
Role of Technical Committees
The release of draft versions for public access and purchase is governed by the technical committees responsible for the standard. Their decisions are influenced by the need for wide-ranging input and the specific goals of the development process.
If you purchased the DIS(Draft International Standard) edition of ISO 9001, what you actually received was the draft version of the standard, as the finalized 6th edition has not yet been published. Note that the document will still reflect the naming conventions associated with its current draft status.
Additionally, Final Draft International Standards (FDIS) may also be released during the later stages, representing a more refined version of the draft but still subject to final approval.
How to Verify the Edition You Have Purchased
To avoid confusion about which edition of an ISO standard you have received:
Read the Product Description: Always check for indications that the standard is a draft version. Publishers typically mention whether the standard is in draft form during the purchase process.
Check the Edition Details in the Document: Open the purchased file and review its cover and identification details. These often specify the version or edition and whether it is a draft.
Contact Customer Support if Unsure: If you are still unclear, reach out to customer support to confirm whether your purchase corresponds to your expectations. By understanding these distinctions and taking the time to verify purchase details, customers can ensure they are receiving the correct version of the ISO standard that meets their needs.